Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Africa with Lions Paw Tours and Safari on an unforgettable hot air balloon adventure. As the sun begins to rise, our expertly guided balloon flights lift you high above the Serengeti, offering panoramic views of vast savannahs, meandering rivers, and abundant wildlife. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to witness the beauty of the African wilderness from a unique perspective, capturing the golden hues of the morning sun as it bathes the plains in a warm glow.
Our hot air balloon safari provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat without disturbance. Glide silently over herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and even predators like lions as they begin their day. With Lions Paw Tours and Safari, safety and comfort are our top priorities. Our professional pilots and well-maintained balloons ensure a smooth and secure flight, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Serengeti. After your flight, enjoy a traditional champagne toast and a hearty bush breakfast in the heart of the wilderness, making your safari experience even more memorable.
Balloon flights are available every day at 06:00 from four designated launch sites within Serengeti National Park. One site operates year-round near Seronera, while the others are seasonal: the Ndutu area hosts flights from 25 December to 15 March, the Western Corridor offers flights from June to October, and flights in northern Serengeti are available from July to October.
While not inexpensive, a balloon safari is truly worth the cost. Gliding peacefully above the treetops as the sun rises over the horizon offers a unique view of the vast Serengeti plains. With an early morning departure, you might even catch a glimpse of nocturnal predators preparing for the day ahead.
On most flights, the pilot will navigate at higher altitudes, giving you unobstructed views of the Serengeti’s vast expanse. There will also be lower altitude sections, providing a chance to spot wildlife up close. Expert pilots can follow rivers and streams, gliding just meters above grunting hippos or strolling giraffes. The low-flying segments offer excellent opportunities for aerial wildlife photography. The flight path is dictated by the wind, and the balloon crew on the ground will track your movement in their vehicles.
For the highest chances of witnessing the Great Migration in its full glory, with massive herds of wildebeest and zebras, booking a hot air balloon flight over the Ndutu area is your best option. During the months of December to March, this region becomes a prime congregation point for the herds. While other locations also offer the opportunity to see the migration from above, it’s important to remember that the herds are constantly on the move. They may only remain in a specific area for a short time, sometimes just a few days. So, a bit of luck will certainly play a role in catching them at the right moment.
For the highest chances of witnessing the Great Migration in its full glory, with massive herds of wildebeest and zebras, booking a hot air balloon flight over the Ndutu area is your best option. During the months of December to March, this region becomes a prime congregation point for the herds. While other locations also offer the opportunity to see the migration from above, it’s important to remember that the herds are constantly on the move. They may only remain in a specific area for a short time, sometimes just a few days. So, a bit of luck will certainly play a role in catching them at the right moment.
The optimal chance to witness the Great Migration, featuring vast numbers of wildebeest and zebra, is to arrange a flight over the Ndutu region, where massive herds gather from December to March. While other locations also offer aerial views of the migration, keep in mind that the herds are constantly on the move and may stay in a specific area for only a short time, sometimes just a few days. As a result, a bit of luck is essential to catch this incredible spectacle.
Prepare for an early morning departure, as transfers from the Seronera area begin at 05:30, while pickups from other lodges in the region start around 04:00. Don’t forget to pack warm clothing and a secure bag for your camera, binoculars, and other personal belongings. We can coordinate balloon safari departures from most lodges and camps across the Serengeti. Due to the high demand for this unforgettable experience, we highly recommend reserving your spot well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons when bookings fill up quickly.
Operating balloon flights is an expensive endeavor, particularly in remote locations like the Serengeti National Park. Balloons must be maintained in excellent condition and are typically replaced after approximately 850 flight hours, with each balloon costing over US$100,000. Additional expenses include fuel, crew salaries, and logistical support. Each flight requires a team of six people plus a licensed pilot, and an additional ten people work behind the scenes to prepare and launch the balloon. This adds up to a significant number of personnel. Other costs involve recovery and transfer vehicles, as well as backup operations. Finally, a significant portion of the price goes toward conservation fees, which support the preservation of the park and its wildlife. These factors collectively contribute to the high cost of a balloon safari.
